Urgent: Journalist’s Car Bombed in Italy, Anti-Mafia Probe Launched

UPDATE: An explosive device detonated under the car of prominent investigative journalist Sigfrido Ranucci late last night in Pomezia, south of Rome, triggering an urgent investigation by Italy’s anti-Mafia police. The blast, which occurred around 11 PM on October 6, 2023, completely destroyed Ranucci’s vehicle and caused significant damage to a neighboring home, raising immediate safety concerns.

Authorities confirmed that the explosion was so powerful it could have had deadly consequences for anyone nearby. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the incident has sent shockwaves through Italy’s media landscape.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni swiftly condemned the attack, labeling it a serious act of intimidation against freedom of the press. She stated, “Freedom and independence of information are essential values of our democracies, which we will continue to defend.” The incident underscores the risks faced by journalists in Italy, especially those tackling sensitive issues involving public figures and organized crime.

Ranucci is the lead anchor of Report, a critical investigative program on RAI3, which has been pivotal in exposing stories involving influential Italian politicians and business leaders. Just this week, he was acquitted in a defamation case related to one of his reports, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by investigative journalists in seeking truth.

The political response has been overwhelmingly supportive, with leaders across the spectrum voicing solidarity. Nicola Fratoianni, leader of the Green and Left Alliance (AVS), emphasized the importance of standing united with Ranucci, stating, “We hope that the investigations will be swift and that the truth about what happened will be known soon.” He remarked on the potential consequences of leaving journalists vulnerable, recalling troubling precedents in Italy’s history.

The trade union Usigrai also expressed its outrage, calling the attack “terrifying” and a reminder of Italy’s darker past. They highlighted the close call Ranucci’s family had, noting that his daughter had walked by the car just minutes before the explosion. Their statement reinforced a commitment to support Ranucci and his colleagues, asserting that they would not be intimidated in their pursuit of investigative journalism.

This incident raises significant concerns about the climate surrounding media freedom in Italy, especially as Usigrai pointed out a growing trend of hostility against Report and its investigations. Recent remarks from high-ranking officials have labeled the program’s team as “serial slanderers,” intensifying scrutiny on investigative journalism.

As the investigation unfolds, the public and media alike will be watching closely for updates. Authorities have mobilized police, forensic teams, and firefighters to gather evidence and determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion. The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated; it speaks to the very core of democratic values and the safety of those tasked with holding power to account.

The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as officials work to uncover the truth behind this alarming attack.